Sociologists talk of FOMO ("fear of missing out") and never has this feeling been more powerful than 20 minutes before the end of the Extreme Beer Fest. The event, which took place in Boston, MA, had 68 of the world's best breweries offering 2-ounce pours of more than 300 "extreme" beers -- defined simply as "a beer that pushes the boundaries of brewing". Two GP writers, on hand at the festival, managed to try about 50 different beers between them. Here are six of their favorites.

You ever have one of those ideas that seems really good at the time? Like, let's drop these broken speakers down a flight of stairs, or let's jump into the mosh pit at a Machinehead concert, or let's see if we can lure that deer into the car? Just last weekend, I thought it would be a good idea to taste-test a whole load of Russian Imperial Stouts. If you're not familiar with the style, it's characterized by high ABVs and huge chocolate, coffee and malt flavors.
Although they're monstrously strong and typically expensive, Russian Imperial Stouts push the flavor intensity spectrum, offering a look at the sultry, heady, muscly side of beer. For those willing to experiment, they offer a variety of smells, flavors and textures found in few other styles of beer. But take note: if you're going to try them, don't make it a marathon. Give them the credit that they deserve. Still, from the pain of my hangover emerged this list of our favorite Russian Imperial Stouts.